Willett - Regeneration (Phase One)

Get Regeneration (Phase One) here (UK iTunes)

There's no denying the appeal of the artist (Michael) Willett. He's roguishly charming in the MTV hit Faking It; he's the darling of social media thanks to alternatively pithy, insightful and fashion forward tweets and instagram posts; and his music has a depth and texture to it that ensures it will stand the test of time (rather than being a flash in the pan). Thanks to his collaboration with producer Jef Joslin (whose album, 30, I reviewed yesterday here), Willett has poured his heart and soul into his new EP, Regeneration (Phase One) infusing that part of him into the lyrics and performance of the music. In doing this, he is also ensuring that none of the nuanced emotion is lost within the dazzling instrumentals, beats and rhythms he works within. What's most striking about the collection of songs is how the complexity of the narrative themes in play are so symbiotic with the musical arrangements, with words breathing tangible life into the mellifluous notes that surround them. It's clear that there was a singular vision for this project and it's paid off with rewarding and enduring songs...

The listener is introduced to this Regeneration via opening track The Spark. It's an intriguing slice of synth-saturated music that mixes the theatricality of Xanadu with the other-wordly wonder of The Beatles' Across The Universe. Willett gives a soulful, smooth vocal that is a beautiful juxtaposition to the electrifying guitar; seemingly enhancing the sense of awe that the music inspires in the possibilities we all have at our fingertips if we only choose to see them. I also like that there is an aura of Tears for Fears epic song, Sowing The Seeds of Love. It's not that these influences are derivative - rather, that Willett has taken the lessons from pop classics that have come before and sought to incorporate their solid gold teachings of creativity, inspiring lyrics and indelible sounds. It segues straight into You're Amazing - a song whose shuddering electro effects and assertive rock tinged vocal from the main man demonstrate just how diverse and eclectic this EP is. Bold percussion, hand-clap beats and exhilarating guitar riffs keep the groove of the song percolating with a vibrant giddiness that's hard to resist. Willett sings with enthusiastic glee about the virtues of believing in yourself and living by the daily affirmation that is the titular refrain of this peppy track. As the song progresses it actually becomes a convivial rallying call to arms - lifting the spirits of anyone who is down, elevating the confidence of those who need a boost. Utterly joyful and should be played regularly for an aurally induced endorphin rush.

"Gimme some love" is the repetitive refrain that introduces Feed The Monster. The song taps into that human need in all of us to be wanted, to be needed, to be in the spotlight - whether it be basking in the glow of that one special person who recognises your inherent worth, or that urge to be a star, admired and adored by millions. The song works as an insightful revelation into both situations. It becomes an all consuming hunger that craves more, more, more and Willett does an excellent job of conveying that through an intricately delivered vocal performance that embodies the seductive, longing, urgent, ferocious nature of those sentiments. The music descends from pop majesty to a bewildering yet intoxicating wall of sound that gives way as suddenly as it arrived - as if all the crushing influences of the world have suddenly dissipated, leaving only the sound of Willet's voice. The effect is dramatic and bold but elevates the song and satiates the listener. And then, all too soon, it's time for the final track, Poison. Prominent piano chords breathe the song into life, providing an evocative backdrop for the breathtaking singing of Willett - he's done a fine fine job across the EP but on this mid-tempo shimmying groove, he's a man obsessed and possessed with the pain and aching in his voice beautifully vivid, seeping through your speakers like black paint oozing across the score. Thematically, it brings the golden thread of the EP full circle - believing in yourself, needing the approval of others and then, once you've got it, slave to it's every whim. A genuinely stunning piece of work that deserves to be lauded from the highest rooftops. Quite epic.